Press Release l Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

• Steps Taken to Curb Adulteration in Food Items
• Over 5.18 Lakh Samples Analyzed in Three Years; 88,192 Penalties Imposed, 3,614 Convictions Secured
• FSSAI has developed Risk Based Inspection System where frequency of inspection is decided based on risk associated with Food businesses and issued guidelines
• FSSAI has notified 252 food testing laboratories for analysis of food samples and 24 Referral Food Laboratories for the analysis of appellate samples
• 305 Food Safety on Wheels deployed across 35 States/UTs for on spot testing of adulteration in various food commodities

Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) is mandated to lay down science-based standards for articles of food and to regulate their manufacture, storage, distribution, sale and import to ensure availability of safe and wholesome food for human consumption. The implementation and enforcement of the Food Safety and Standards (FSS) Act, 2006 is a shared responsibility between the Central and State Governments.            

While the FSSAI, is responsible for laying down science-based standards and ensuring overall coordination, the State Food Safety Authorities are primarily responsible for enforcement at the field level. Designated officers (DOs) and Food Safety Officers (FSOs) under the Commissioner of Food safety in the States/UTs are entrusted with the responsibility of enforcing the provisions of FSS Act, 2006.

Surveillance drives, monitoring, regulatory inspection and random sampling of various food products including milk, ghee, spices, honey, paneer and other foods conducted throughout the year by the officials of Food Safety Departments of the respective States/UTs and Regional Offices of FSSAI to check compliance with the quality and safety parameters and other requirements as laid down under Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, and Regulations made thereunder. Over the last three years (2022–23 to 2024–25), a total of 5,18,559 samples were analyzed. During this period, 88,192 cases were decided with penalties, 3,614 cases resulted in convictions, and 1,161 licenses were cancelled.

FSSAI has also developed Risk Based Inspection System (RBIS) where frequency of inspection is decided based on risk associated with Food businesses and issued guidelines. Annual inspections are to be conducted for all food categories identified as high risk. Total number of Risk Based Inspections done in last three years (2022-23 to 2024-25) are 56,259.

FSSAI extends financial and technical assistance to States/UTs for strengthening of food safety infrastructure in the country. The support includes the following:

• Strengthening Enforcement and Compliance such as Licensing and Registration
• Inspections and Audits, Sampling and Testing of Enforcement and Surveillance Samples
• Consumer Grievance Redressal
• Capacity Building for Officers
• Strengthening of Food Testing Ecosystem such as High End/ Basic equipment for labs
• Promotion of FSSAI initiatives such as Eat Right Campus, Eat Right School
• Flexi Assistance such as Hiring of vehicles for undertaking inspection and sampling by FSOs and DOs

To strengthen the food regulatory ecosystem in the country, FSSAI has notified 252 food testing laboratories for analysis of food samples and 24 Referral Food Laboratories for the analysis of appellate samples. FSSAI has also provided funds for Mobile Food Testing Laboratory (MFTL) referred to as “Food Safety on wheels” (FSW) to States/UTs. It is an important means to combat adulteration as FSWs are equipped with basic infrastructure for on spot testing of adulteration in various food commodities. Currently, 305 FSWs are deployed across 35 States/UTs.

The Union Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare, Shri Prataprao Jadhav stated this in a written reply in the Rajya Sabha today.

Press Release l President's Secretariat

The President of India Smt Droupadi Murmu graced an event to commemorate the five billion meals of Akshaya Patra Foundation at Rashtrapati Bhavan Cultural Centre today (March 17, 2026).

Speaking on the occasion, the President said that serving five billion meals in advancement of educational objectives is the remarkable achievement of Akshaya Patra Foundation. The theme of this event, ‘From a Well-Nourished and Well-Educated India to a Developed India’, underscores the significance of a nourished and educated society in realizing our national resolve to build ‘Viksit Bharat’ by the year 2047.

The President said that a safe and bright future for our children is not solely the responsibility of the government, but a shared responsibility of us all. When teachers, parents, social organizations, the corporate sector, and every segment of society work together, then we lay a strong foundation for the coming generation. We must ensure that every child receives quality education, nutritious food, good health, and a clean and safe environment. These fundamentals enable holistic development of children.

The President said that education is the instrument that determines the opportunities available in an individual's life and paves the way for their success. It serves as an effective medium for transformation and empowerment. The process of empowerment and capacity-building begins to take shape from the very moment children start attending school. School equips children with the skills and experiences necessary to effectively navigate the challenges of daily life and to become responsible, conscientious citizens. She commended Akshaya Patra Foundation for working continuously to address the issue of malnutrition among children and encourage them to pursue education by delivering mid-day meals to schools for past 25 years.

The President said that it is essential that our children, who are the future of the nation, have ready access to nutritious food and quality education. The Government of India has launched numerous significant initiatives aimed at providing adequate nutrition and improved healthcare services to pregnant mothers and children. The school lunch program, implemented under PM POSHAN, has proven to be a significant incentive for parents to send their children to school. Numerous studies substantiate that, as a result of this program, there has been an increase in children's enrolment, attendance, and retention in schools. Also there has been a remarkable improvement in their learning capabilities and academic performance. She was happy to note that Akshaya Patra Foundation is playing an important role in furthering the objectives of ‘Samagra Shiksha Abhiyan,’ which aims to ensure quality and inclusive education for all children by the year 2030.

The President said that children are not merely beneficiaries of the free meal program. They are the architects of the nation's bright future. The nutritious food they receive today is an investment in our nation's human capital. The healthy, educated and energetic children will constitute India's workforce and play a pivotal role in achieving ‘Viksit Bharat’ by 2047.

Cinema l The Kerala Story 2 Goes Beyond Proves Critics Wrong

By - Amit kumaR Agarwal

The Kerala Story 2 Goes Beyond is a bonafide hit; proving a section trade-pundits that wrote obituary about the film, wrong!

A well-made film with minor blemishes in terms of connections, TKS2GB is the only film post Dhurandhar and Border 2, to mint money at the BO - though on much lower levels, but then the film is made on an extremely controlled budget.

Earlier, when the film had problems releasing on February 27, a lot of trade-pundits and naysayers said the film will loose money heavily - but then the film proved yet again that if a topical subject is treated with sensitivity, the BO can't go wrong. Earlier the Taj Story was a success too!

Reports are already in the trade about The Kerala Story 3 taking shape - whatever is the outcome, there is no denying the fact that The Kerala Story 2 Goes Beyond gave the BO the much needed oxygen it needed to breathe, before Dhurandhar The Revenge breathes fire!

BBN Internship Program l Thrifting: Why young people are choosing it

By: Jui Deshpande

Thrifting is emerging as a new trend, especially among the younger generations who are turning towards a sustainable fashion option. Simply put, thrifting is buying second-hand clothes, jewellery and accessories, sometimes even furniture and home decor. With rising environmental concerns and growing awareness about fashion waste, many consumers are beginning to see thrifting as a more responsible way to shop. Today, there are several online platforms and stores, making it accessible. While the reasons vary, cost, sustainability, and individuality appear to be the strongest motivations behind this shift.

For many young shoppers, thrifting offers a sense of excitement. Going through heaps of clothes to find the unique clothing, at a low price is rewarding. It’s like finding a hidden treasure. For some, it is compelling to get their favorite fashion statements at half the market price. This “thrill of the deal” has become a major reason why people continue to return to thrift stores.

Affordability plays a major role. With rising living costs and inflation, buying new clothing from major brands is not always practical. Thrifting allows people to build wardrobes without spending large amounts of money. For students and young adults in particular, it offers a way to explore fashion while staying within a budget. Who doesn’t like to get more in less investment?

Beyond affordability, sustainability is another important factor driving the popularity of thrifting. The fashion industry is known for producing large amounts of waste, with many unused garments ending up in landfills. By purchasing second-hand clothes, customers  extend the life of existing items and reduce the demand for new production. In this way, thrifting can contribute to a more sustainable approach to fashion. A conscious choice in saving the environment. 

Another appeal lies in individuality. Many thrift shoppers enjoy finding unique pieces that are not commonly available in mainstream stores. Vintage clothing, older fashion styles, and discontinued designs allow people to experiment with personal style rather than follow on going trends.

However, some believe thrifting has also evolved into a trend rather than just a practical choice. What originally existed as a way to make clothing accessible to people with limited resources has, in some cases, become fashionable among those who can afford new items. While this has increased awareness around second-hand clothing, it has also raised questions about whether thrifting still serves its original purpose.

Despite these debates, interest in thrifting continues to grow. For many young people, it represents a balance between affordability, environmental awareness, and creative expression. Whether motivated by sustainability, style, or simply the excitement of finding a great deal, thrifting is gradually becoming a meaningful alternative to fast fashion.

Not Just A Review l The Kerala Story 2 Goes Beyond

By - Amit kumaR Agarwal

Love Aatankwad is a reality today, there is no point in turning a blind eye to it. Even the rational people, not only in India, but across the world, that believe in facts and figures have admitted that it is happening in India, on a large scale.

In the context of India, the menace has become a huge problem. The writer knows about three high-profile cases in his circle. Kerala Story 2 Goes Beyond is inspired by many such cases; few that are reported and many that go unreported.

Spiritual sequel to The Kerala Story, the film takes three cases and unfolds through the lives of three girls. An underage girl Divya Paliwal (Aditi Bhatia), an aspiring athlete, Neha (Aishwarya Ojha) deceived into a relationship by a man with false Hindu identity and an urban naxal girl Surekha (Ulka Gupta) happily moving to 'live-in' with her 'progressive' muslim boyfriend.

How their lives are forever changed forms the narrative of the film.

The film is very gripping and the screenplay is crisp. Many scenes will shock you; the way a national level athlete is reduced to a sex slave is brutal. The irony is, her love story unfolds in front of Taj Mahal, perceived symbol of love by many! 

As an audience you do have a few questions, regarding the connections in the film, but the thematic relevance and importance of the subject makes you overlook this inconsistency.

All the actors have done a fabulous job, if the female leads are good, the male antagonists and the supporting cast are well cast as well. The direction by Kamakhya Narain Singh is very gripping. Technically the film wears a polished look.

One song, O Maayi Ri, sung very beautifully by Shreya Ghoshal and penned very articulately by Manoj Muntashir, particularly stands out. It will surely well-up the eyes of many mothers and may be fathers as well, in the audiences.

The film is already a hit and given the two-week period till March 19, should continue to dominate the box-office. The Kerala Story 2 Goes Beyond is one of those rare sequels that go up the original - in the history of world cinema, only few titles come to my mind that achieved the feat - Kill Bill: Volume 2, Housefull 2, KGF 2, Pushpa 2 - that's it. The Kerala Story 2 joins the elite list.

Cinema l Lion Roars Solo

By - Amit kumaR Agarwal

Only four films so far, have done Rs.150+ crores Opening Day and they are all from Telugu Film Industry - Pushpa 2, RRR, Bahubali The Conclusion and Kalki 2898 AD. Of course, two of these starred Bollywood superstars like Amitabh Bachchan, Alia Bhatt, Deepika Padukone and Ajay Devgn

• Will Dhurandhar 2 become the first Hindi film to join this elite list
• Will D2 do an unprecedented Rs.300 crores Opening Day

Anti-climax is what the biggest box-office battle of Indian cinema, in ages, turned out to be!

Why?

Toxic shifts to June 4, 2026. Leaving Dhurandhar 2 as the sole film to release on March 19, 2026. 

This was predicted by me more than a month back! Egos apart, I feel it is a very wise decision not only for the films involved, but also for the film-industry as there is no point fighting for screens and show-timings.

Both films look solid; though as I said earlier, Toxic looks in Salaar and Saaho zone, may be the makers will take care of it!

Anyways, the trade-pundits are confident that Dhurandhar - The Revenge, part 2 of the franchise will have the biggest opening day in the history of cinema.

If it happens, it will break two myths about the industry:

• Pre-Eid dull period
• Long-duration films can't make money 

Of course, the reported 4-hour long runtime would mean about 3 to 4 shows less per multiplex, but just like Dhurandhar 1, the film is here to stay.

My prediction is close to 300crores Opening Day worldwide, and this despite the fact that about 30% of the overseas market will be affected because of the ongoing middle-east conflict.

The fact though is, Dhurandhar 2 has all the makings, to be the first film to do an unprecedented Rs.300 crores Opening Day worldwide!

BBN Internship Program l Doomscrolling and Digital Fatigue: Why People Are Returning to Analogue Habits

By - Jui Deshpande

“Just 5 more minutes” can turn into an hour or more. Endless doomscrolling has quietly become a habit of many people. It has become uncontrollable. Trouble no one expected when digital technology dominated the world.  It can be seen that people are slowly returning to analog habits. Analog habits means all those activities that do not include screens and technology. The simple examples could be journaling, painting, meeting people face to face instead of chatting. The mass is opting for a change which is like a fresh breath of air during the rise of digital content.

Many have admitted that they have tried uninstalling Instagram only to end up on YouTube shorts. The platform changes but the habit stays. One person described it as an “addictive pull” that makes them tired for no apparent reason and miss out on real life moments. One described it as “cheap dopamine relief” where they are investing so much time but getting nothing productive in return.

The concern goes deeper than wasted time and fatigue. Several responses reflected a fear that social media is quietly reshaping identity, influencing the clothes people wear, the trends they follow, even how they think. One person expressed that doomscrolling doesn’t show immediate damage, but has a long-term impact: it reduces time for reflection, weakens attention spans, and slowly erodes the ability to think deeply about life goals. One in particular mentioned that it is like being a zombie, just going on in life. Without thinking or doing anything about what they really want to do in life.

Attempts to reduce screen time are common but not always successful. App locks work temporarily. Phones are placed in another room. Some try replacing scrolling with reading, sketching, exercising, cleaning, journaling, or simply having conversations at home. One person journals every night. Another consciously keeps their phone away while spending time with family. Yet many admitted that completely detaching from screens feels nearly impossible in an increasingly digital world.

Despite the difficulty, there is a noticeable difference when analogue habits are practiced. Respondents described feeling subtle mood improvements, a sense of contentment, and better connection when engaging in physical activities. Writing by hand, reading printed books, sketching, walking, or using separate devices for specific functions were described as small ways to escape the “death grip” of the smartphone.

Interestingly, people don’t see analog living as nostalgia. They see it as survival. The return to physical habits appears less about rejecting technology and more about reclaiming balance and peace. Being mindful with social media.

In a world where everything is designed to keep attention captive, analog activities offer something rare: space to think, reflect, and simply exist again. While social media may not disappear, the growing awareness of its long-term impact is pushing people to rediscover something slower, quieter, and more grounded.

And perhaps that shift isn’t backward, it’s necessary.

#TKMU Wishes Happy Holi To All

By - Aanya

Talennt Ka Maha Utsav wishes everyone worldwide, a very happy and colorful festival of Holi.

#TKMU is a very affordable and easily accessible talent platform to showcase your talent worldwide.

Amrita Vijay Tata Ravipati, Anshu Mudgal, Madhur Sharma l Top Trending News l Life Starts @ 50

By - Aanya

• The news of the debut film of Amrita Vijay Tata Ravipati, Madhur Sharma and Anshu Mudgal trends on the top as the number one news for three-days in a row

Very few women in the world give shape to the adage - life starts @ 50. Three women from India did it and the best part is, that their news is trending as the top news on Bhaarat Bol News above some of the iconic stars like Katrina Kaif, Radhika Apte and Academy Award winner, Sir Ben Kingsley.

Anshu says that the film idea came at the spur of the moment as Amrita, Madhur and she sat eating ice-cream!

"The discussion was, having achieved everything in life, what more can we do to be remembered by people, long after we are gone", chuckles Madhur Sharma

"And we decided that we want to be actresses, now", Amrita adds with a dash of smile. Amrita continues "and here we are with this amazing short film that will soon be released on OTT's".

The three thanked Bhaarat Bol News team for covering the news, "but most importantly, the readers, that found the news interesting and made it trend as number one news", Amrita signs off, as she speaks for the femme-troika!

News Shorts - Tribes Art Fest

By - Amit kumaR Agarwal

The Union Minister of Tribal Affairs, Jual Oram, today inaugurated Tribes Art Fest - 12-day festival at Travancore Palace. It may be recalled that under the visionary leadership of the Prime Minister, and his emphasis that tribal art, languages and traditions represent India’s living civilisational heritage, the Ministry of Tribal Affairs organizes this, Tribes Art Fest (TAF)

TAF 2026 reaffirms the Government of India’s commitment to preservation of tribal heritage alongside structured economic empowerment of tribal communities. The ceremony opened with a soulful invocation of Vande Mataram by Sangeet Natak Akademi. Organised by the Ministry of Tribal Affairs in collaboration with Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FICCI) and National Gallery of Modern Art (NGMA), the festival brings together more than 75 tribal artists and over 1,000 artworks representing more than 30 tribal art traditions.

News Shorts - Flag-in INSV Kaundinya

By - Amit kumaR Agarwal

Raksha Rajya Mantri, Sanjay Seth, on March 02, 2026, flagged-in to Naval Dockyard, Mumbai, Indian Naval Sailing Vessel (INSV) Kaundinya, a traditionally constructed stitched sailing vessel of the Indian Navy, which has returned home after the successful completion of her historic maiden overseas voyage to Muscat, Oman. 

Addressing the gathering, Raksha Rajya Mantri highlighted the national significance of the project, stating that INSV Kaundinya represented the revival of India’s ancient maritime knowledge systems and would serve as an inspiration to the youth of the country. He underscored the courage, resilience, and the spirit of rediscovery reflected by the voyage, encouraging young Indians to embrace adventure and innovation.

Teen Deviyaan - Amrita Vijay Tata Ravipati, Anshu Mudgal, Madhur Sharma Debut Making A Defining Statement

Aanya

Have you heard the saying it's a "Woman's World"!

Three ladies have put this saying to practice in the most literal form, making an assertive style-statement!

Each of them is making their debut at the age of 50+, an age when most of the women, not only in India, but across the world - are at crossroads because of the social structure worldwide.

Madhur Sharma, says that she feels age is just a number. "I mean look at Amitabh Bachchan at the age of 83 he towered above superstars like Prabhas and Deepika Padukone or the IG sensation Disha Patani in Kalki 2898 AD, so why do we women feel that life is over by 60 or 70".

Madhur should know, together with Anshu Mudgal, she launched one of the most prestigious awards held both in India and Dubai.

Anshu says that the reason she acted in the short film, "Women In Cannes" was, "just like Dhurandhar, the film makes one of the chapters in "An Actor In Cannes", who knows I might see myself on the big-screen in a multiplex or cinema soon".

Amrita Vijay Tata Ravipati says that after winning a beauty pageant with unprecedented votes, "I was looking at something really substantial to make debut with. What i really liked about the filming process was the absolute clarity of the director, about what he wanted".

Nancy and Ashley who very actively took part in the film, and did a cameo as well, said "It is our first acting experience and we loved the whole vibe of the experience".

Multi-award winning film-maker, Amit R Agrwal said that "I had an opportunity to distribute and market this short film worldwide on multiple OTT's. I was looking for the right concept, one of my interns Pallavi gave me the concept and here I am shooting the film".

The film will premier soon on OTT's worldwide and might be a part of the feature film Honey Kapoor YoLo that will screen in cinemas and multiplexes across the world during film-festivals soon.